VanArts

UPDATE: After twelve years, I’m hanging up my teaching hat. I’m simply too busy with animation work and can no longer juggle this course with all my other endeavours. I wish the best of luck to all you aspiring comickers!

Since 2005, I’ve been teaching a part-time comic book course at VanArts (Vancouver Institute of Media Arts). The course, Introduction to Comic Book Production, consists of 12 classes — 3 hours every Monday night — and allows students to develop their skills as a comic creator. It is ideal for those who already have an interest in comics but would like some guidance and advice on how to make them.

In this course, students will be guided through the various stages of creating a four-page comic, including: script writing, character design, thumbnailing, penciling, inking, page structure, panel composition, and storytelling. Students will be using Adobe Photoshop software to add lettering and greytones to their artwork, and explore how to develop a plan for pursuing their personal aspirations within the medium of comics.

I do recommend that potential students send me five or so portfolio samples so I can determine if your drawing skills are far enough along to handle the assignments. Also note that the course is intended for ages 18 and up.